Tue Sep 24 19:45:02 UTC 2024: ## Badlapur Sexual Assault Accused Killed in Police Encounter Sparks Controversy
**Thane, Maharashtra:** The death of Akshay Shinde, accused in the Badlapur sexual assault case, in a police encounter on Monday has ignited a political storm in Maharashtra. While the ruling government maintains it was a case of self-defense, the opposition alleges a conspiracy to shield the main accused.
Shinde, who was being transported from Taloja Central Jail for questioning in connection with a sexual assault case filed by his estranged wife, allegedly snatched a police officer’s pistol and fired at him. The officer returned fire, fatally injuring Shinde.
However, Shinde’s father has challenged the police narrative, claiming his son was killed in a “fake encounter”. He has filed a petition in the Bombay High Court demanding a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into the incident.
Shinde’s mother and uncle have also expressed doubts, alleging a conspiracy by the police and the Badlapur school management.
The opposition, led by the Shiv Sena (UBT), has joined the chorus of suspicion, questioning the possibility of a handcuffed man snatching a weapon and firing at a policeman. They claim the encounter was staged to protect the real culprits.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and his deputy Devendra Fadnavis have defended the police action, stating that the officer fired in self-defense after Shinde opened fire.
The controversy surrounding Shinde’s death is likely to escalate further, with the opposition demanding a thorough investigation and the ruling government maintaining its stand that the encounter was justified.
First Piper 